A Play, a Pie, and a Pint at Òran Mór: Your Complete Guide

Glasgow’s West End is home to one of the most unique and beloved lunchtime theatre experiences in the UK: A Play, a Pie, and a Pint at Òran Mór. Housed in a converted church with stunning stained-glass windows, Òran Mór brings together fresh new writing, a bustling arts scene, and delicious comfort food—all under one historic roof. Whether you’re a dedicated theatre buff, a casual culture-seeker, or an aspiring actor, here’s everything you need to know about this iconic Glasgow institution.

The Concept: Theatre with a Twist

Launched in 2004 by producer David MacLennan, A Play, a Pie, and a Pint quickly gained fame for its winning formula:

A Play: A brand-new one-act play, often showcasing emerging or established playwrights.
A Pie: A hearty, warm pie (vegetarian and vegan options usually available).
A Pint: A drink of your choice—beer, cider, or a soft drink.

The idea was to make theatre more accessible and relaxed, drawing in audiences who might not normally attend traditional evening shows. Performances typically last around 45 to 60 minutes, making it easy to fit into a lunchtime break or a casual day out in Glasgow’s vibrant West End.

Location and Atmosphere

Address: Top of Byres Road, G12 8QX

Found inside a converted church at the top of Byres Road, Òran Mór is a key cultural hub in the city. The name, which means “great song” in Gaelic, references both the building’s heritage and its modern role as a lively arts venue. Expect a friendly, bohemian vibe with a buzzing bar area and a grand auditorium featuring exquisite murals by renowned artist Alasdair Gray.

Tip: Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere and grab a good seat. Plus, you can explore the surrounding area—Byres Road and Ashton Lane—brimming with quirky shops, cafés, and bars.

Ticketing and What to Expect

Schedule: A Play, a Pie, and a Pint typically runs Monday to Saturday at lunchtime (around 1pm). Always check the official website or social media channels for the latest schedule.
Pricing: Tickets usually include your show, pie, and pint in one wallet-friendly package. Prices can vary slightly, so book ahead or check Òran Mór’s website to confirm.
Seating: It’s unallocated, first-come, first-served. The set-up is casual—tables and chairs rather than rows—enhancing the friendly, pub-theatre feel.

After showing your ticket at the entrance, you’ll be directed to pick up your pie and pint before settling down at a table. Keep in mind that lines can form quickly, so plan to arrive in plenty of time to grab your refreshments and prime seats!

The Plays: Expect Variety and Innovation

Part of the charm of A Play, a Pie, and a Pint is the sheer range of work on display. New plays debut weekly, offering everything from comedy and drama to musicals and one-person shows. This constant rotation means no two visits are alike, and you could discover the next big thing in theatre or spot the early work of future writing superstars.

Notable aspects include:

Emerging Writers: Many plays are penned by up-and-coming Scottish and international playwrights.
Varied Genres: The programme includes everything from biting social commentary to light-hearted farce.
Short and Sweet: Performances typically last under an hour, making them perfect for a lunchtime cultural fix.

Food and Drink: A Slice of Comfort

The “Pie and Pint” part of the experience is not just a gimmick—it’s a highlight in its own right.

Pies: Expect classic, comforting fillings like steak and ale or something more adventurous. Vegetarian and vegan pies are regularly featured, catering to different dietary preferences.
Pints: Beer, cider, and soft drinks are standard. If you fancy something else, you can usually upgrade your drink at the bar for a small additional cost.

Insider Tip: Check the day’s pie flavour in advance. If you fancy a particular variety, plan your visit accordingly—or just embrace the surprise!

Why You Should Go

Affordable Theatre: The all-in-one ticket means you can catch quality live performances without breaking the bank.
Lunchtime Escape: Experience something cultural during your lunch break, or make it a fun midday treat on a weekend.
Community Vibe: The casual table seating often sparks chats with fellow theatre-lovers.
Discover New Talent: Witness fresh plays and support emerging writers and actors.

Before and After the Show

Òran Mór is perfectly located for extending your outing:

Explore Byres Road and Ashton Lane: Enjoy a post-show coffee or a pint in one of the many eclectic bars and cafés.
Botanic Gardens: Just a short walk away, the Gardens provide a beautiful spot to relax and reflect on the performance.
Museums and Galleries: The University of Glasgow’s Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery are nearby, ideal for further artistic inspiration.

Take the Stage Yourself with Acting Coach Scotland

Inspired by the plays you’ve seen at Òran Mór? Ready to step into the spotlight? Acting Coach Scotland offers a range of acting classes, workshops, and professional training programmes right here in Glasgow. Our passionate team can help you develop your skills, boost your confidence, and prepare for auditions—maybe even for a future stint at A Play, a Pie, and a Pint!

Practical Tips

Arrive Early: Get the best seats, avoid the queue for pies, and pick your favourite pint.
Check the Listings: Plays change weekly, so stay informed about upcoming shows on the official Òran Mór website or social media pages.
Dress Comfortably: There’s no need for formal attire—come as you are and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Bring Friends: This is a fun, sociable experience, ideal for theatre enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Experience Glasgow’s Most Unique Lunchtime Theatre

Whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or completely new to the scene, A Play, a Pie, and a Pint at Òran Mór**** is an unmissable gem in Glasgow’s cultural crown. Enjoy an hour of captivating live performance, tuck into a hearty Scottish pie, and wash it down with a refreshing pint—all while soaking in the historic ambiance of one of the city’s most iconic venues.

Ready for the next step in your acting journey? Contact Acting Coach Scotland to start your training and find yourself on stage in no time. Break a leg!